In a devastating turn of events that has left the golf world reeling, Regina Rajchrtova, mother of women’s golf superstar Nelly Korda, made an unexpected and emotional announcement just 30 minutes ago from their family home in Bradenton, Florida. The former professional tennis player shocked fans worldwide by revealing that her 27-year-old daughter, the current world No. 1 and two-time major champion, is facing a serious health setback that could sideline her indefinitely.
Rajchrtova, visibly distraught during a brief social media video post, stated: “With a heavy heart, I must share that Nelly is currently battling a recurring injury that has worsened significantly. She is undergoing intensive medical evaluations and will be stepping away from competition to focus on her recovery.” The announcement comes amid whispers of ongoing neck spasms and migraines that have plagued Korda throughout the 2025 season, forcing her to withdraw from key events like the Hanwha Lifeplus International Crown last month.
Nelly Korda, born on July 28, 1998, in Bradenton, Florida, has been the dominant force in women’s golf for years. The daughter of Czech tennis legends Petr Korda (1998 Australian Open champion) and Regina Rajchrtova (former world No. 26 and Olympian), Nelly turned professional in 2016 and quickly rose to stardom. She claimed her first LPGA Tour victory in 2018 and exploded onto the scene with seven wins in 2024, including her second major at the Chevron Championship. Korda also secured Olympic gold in 2020 and held the world No. 1 ranking for over 100 weeks until losing it earlier this year to Atthaya Thitikul after a winless 2025 campaign.
This season has been uncharacteristically challenging for the 15-time LPGA winner. Despite eight top-10 finishes and earnings exceeding $2.2 million, Korda has yet to secure a victory in 18 starts. Her last triumph came at The Annika in November 2024, where she defended her title for the third time in four years. Injuries have been a recurring theme: a dog bite sidelined her in 2024, followed by migraines and neck issues that flared up during practice rounds. The recent withdrawal from the International Crown due to a “full spasm” in her neck highlighted the severity, with experts noting it as an exacerbation of prior problems.
Fans and fellow players flooded social media with support immediately after Rajchrtova’s post. “Praying for you, Nelly! Get well soon, queen,” wrote one admirer, while LPGA star Charley Hull commented, “Heartbroken for you. You’re the strongest – come back stronger.” The golf community remembers Korda’s resilience; she bounced back from a blood clot in her arm in 2022 to dominate the tour.
Nelly Korda’s Career Highlights: A Legacy at Risk?
- **Major Wins**: 2021 Women’s PGA Championship, 2024 Chevron Championship
– **LPGA Victories**: 15 total, including a record-tying five straight in 2024
– **Olympic Gold**: 2020 Tokyo Games
– **World No. 1 Weeks**: Over 100, sixth woman to reach this milestone
– **2025 Stats**: Scoring average 69.70, no wins but consistent top-10s 
The timing couldn’t be worse. The LPGA season is winding down with the CME Group Tour Championship approaching, where Korda aimed to defend her Race to the CME Globe title. Now, her participation hangs in the balance. Sources close to the family indicate Nelly is consulting top specialists in Florida, exploring options from physical therapy to possible surgery.
Regina Rajchrtova, 57, has been a pillar of strength for the Korda family. A former top-30 tennis player who competed at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, she and husband Petr have guided their children – including LPGA pro Jessica Korda and ATP tennis player Sebastian Korda – to athletic greatness. In her announcement, Rajchrtova tearfully added, “Nelly has given everything to this sport. Now, it’s time for her health first. We ask for privacy and positive energy during this difficult time.”
This sad news has sparked conversations about player welfare on the LPGA Tour. Korda’s struggles echo those of other stars facing burnout and injuries in a grueling schedule. As one analyst noted, “Nelly Korda is golf’s biggest draw. Her absence would be a massive blow.”
What Happens Next for Nelly Korda?
Medical experts suggest recovery from neck spasms and migraines could take weeks to months, depending on the root cause. Korda has previously overcome adversity, returning stronger after her 2022 health scare. Fans are hopeful for a swift comeback, perhaps in time for the 2026 season opener.
In the meantime, the golf world stands united. Tributes pour in, with hashtags like #GetWellNelly trending globally. Korda’s sponsors, including Nike and TaylorMade, issued statements of support, emphasizing her well-being over performance.
Nelly Korda health update: The 27-year-old’s forced hiatus underscores the physical toll of professional golf. As Regina Rajchrtova’s announcement ripples through Florida and beyond, one thing is clear – the sport misses its queen already.
For the latest on Nelly Korda’s recovery and LPGA news, stay tuned. This story is developing.
